Gulfport, Florida, offers some of the best opportunities to see dolphins in their natural habitat. Its calm waters, scenic islands, and diverse wildlife make it an ideal spot for boat-based wildlife viewing. We’re especially fond of the Shell Key Island Adventure, which combines dolphin sightings with the chance to gather beautiful shells on a pristine island. If snorkeling and exploring underwater life appeal to you, the Egmont Key Island Tour offers a more immersive experience. For those looking to end their day with a touch of romance, the Sunset Dolphin Cruise delivers stunning views alongside playful dolphins. Each option offers a unique way to enjoy Florida’s marine environment, whether you’re after a short scenic trip or a longer adventure.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find three highly-rated dolphin watching tours in Gulfport, each with its own strengths:
– The 2.5 Hour Shell Key Island Adventure offers shell collecting, wildlife viewing, and dolphin spotting all in one.
– The 4 Hour Egmont Key Island Tour includes snorkeling, exploring lush habitats, and dolphins in the wild.
– The Fabulous Florida Sunset Cruise is perfect for a romantic evening with sunset views and dolphins playing alongside.
Now, let’s take a closer look at each tour to help you decide which best fits your interests and schedule.
1. 2.5 Hour Shell Key Island Adventure – Dolphins And Shells
At number one on our list is the 2.5 Hour Shell Key Island Adventure. This tour is ideal for travelers eager to combine wildlife viewing with shell collecting. Shell Key Island itself is famous for its white sand, abundant shells, and sand dollars. During the trip, you’ll get a chance to hop off the boat and walk along the beach, filling your bag with treasures that Florida beaches are known for. And of course, dolphins are often seen playing in the Gulf waters, making this an exciting trip for families and solo travelers alike.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on natural beauty and marine wildlife. The water washes up new shells every day, ensuring a fresh bounty for shell enthusiasts. The scenery is breathtaking, with panoramic views of the ocean and the island’s pristine sands. The boat staff are cheerful and knowledgeable, creating a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. At only $69 per person, this is a good value for those who want a shorter, laid-back experience packed with nature and dolphin sightings. Some reviews highlight how the guide’s enthusiasm and keen spotting skills made the trip especially memorable.
Bottom line: For a quick, fun outing focused on shells and dolphins, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially great for families, shell collectors, or anyone looking for a casual day on the water.
2. 4 Hour Egmont Key Island Tour With Dolphins & Snorkeling
Coming in at number two is the 4 Hour Egmont Key Island Tour, a more comprehensive experience that combines dolphin watching, snorkeling, and exploring a historic island. This tour is perfect if you want to see more of the marine environment and enjoy some underwater adventure. The boat crew is passionate about showcasing the region’s natural wonders, and they’ll take you to spots where you can snorkel in clear Gulf waters.
A highlight of this tour is the chance to observe Bottlenose Dolphins in their natural habitat, often seen playing in the wake of the boat. You’ll visit lush habitats that support manatees, seabirds, and other marine life, making it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts. The beaches are pristine, perfect for hunting for shells like conchs and whelks. For around $89, the tour offers excellent value for those wanting a well-rounded day of activities. While some reviews note the tour is longer, it’s perfect for travelers eager to combine dolphin watching with underwater exploration and beach relaxation.
Bottom line: This tour appeals to active travelers who want a mix of wildlife, underwater sights, and beach time, with an emphasis on discovering the Gulf’s rich marine life.
3. Fabulous Florida Sunset Cruise Including Dolphins
Number three on our list is the Fabulous Florida Sunset Cruise, a 2.5-hour boat ride designed to capture the magic of sunset and dolphin play. This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a romantic, scenic experience with plenty of opportunities to see dolphins dancing alongside the boat. As the sun dips, the sky turns vibrant colors, and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge lights up, creating a stunning backdrop.
The cruise features fun island music and a lively atmosphere, making it an enjoyable evening outing. Dolphins are known to swim close to the boat during sunset, providing fantastic photo opportunities. The price is reasonable at $65 per person, and although reviews are limited, the combination of sunset views and dolphin sightings makes it a popular choice for couples and small groups seeking a memorable evening. It’s a shorter tour, so it’s well-suited for travelers with limited time or those wanting a relaxing, scenic end to their day.
Bottom line: For a romantic, picture-perfect experience with dolphins and a beautiful sunset, this cruise is hard to beat.
$65 per person
How to Choose
When selecting the right dolphin tour in Gulfport, consider your interests:
– Want a quick, shell-filled adventure? The Shell Key Island Adventure is your best bet.
– Interested in more active exploration, including snorkeling and wildlife habitats? The Egmont Key Tour provides a full day of discovery.
– Looking for a romantic sunset experience? The Sunset Dolphin Cruise offers spectacular views along with playful dolphins.
Think about your budget, how much time you want to spend on the water, and whether underwater exploration or scenic relaxation appeals more. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons in Florida.
In summary, Gulfport offers a variety of dolphin watching options—from quick shells and dolphin sightings to full-day adventures and romantic sunsets. For families or shell lovers, the Shell Key Island Adventure is perfect. Those craving more activity and underwater sights should opt for the Egmont Key Tour. If a relaxing evening with dolphins and a sunset sounds appealing, the Sunset Cruise will deliver.
No matter which tour you choose, Gulfport’s waters promise plenty of playful dolphins and memorable views. Book early, bring your camera, and prepare for some spectacular Florida wildlife encounters.